Raya Celebrations at Malaysian Embassies Around the World
Global Celebrations
For many Malaysians, Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a significant occasion, a time to be spent with loved ones and to celebrate the blessings received throughout the year. For those living abroad, the celebrations take on a special meaning as they bridge the gap between home and their new surroundings.
Embassies and high commissions play a crucial role in hosting Raya celebrations, offering a taste of home to Malaysians living abroad and showcasing the country’s unique culture to their host countries. Here’s a look at how Hari Raya was celebrated at 10 Malaysian embassies around the world.
Ankara, Turkey
The Malaysian embassy in Ankara played host to a vibrant Raya celebration, attended by about 140 people, including embassy officials, students, and members of the Malaysian diaspora. Guests were treated to traditional festive treats such as satay and Hari Raya cookies.
London, United Kingdom
Members of the Malaysian high commission in London posted highlights of their celebration in a video, starting with a group prayer and ending with scenes of togetherness. Their post was accompanied by a heartfelt pantun wishing everyone a happy Hari Raya.
Tokyo, Japan
Malaysian embassy officials, dressed in their festive best, shot a Hari Raya video at the Tokyo Station, accompanied by the song “Meriah Lain Macam” from Hael Husaini and Nadeera. A pantun was also posted expressing how they celebrated Raya overseas.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
The Malaysian embassy in Phnom Penh posted a video called “Poskod Raya dari Phnom Penh” on its Facebook page. This heartwarming video showcases embassy staff’s attempt to travel home to Malaysia for festive celebrations, only to have their plans upset by unforeseen changes. Despite this, they do not get disheartened and decide to celebrate where they are instead.
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
The Malaysian high commission in Port Moresby, together with representatives of Port Moresby, organised “Program Rewang Bubur Lambuk”, which was attended by around 200 members of the Malaysian diaspora there. About 200 packs of bubur lambuk were distributed to the Islamic Society of Papua New Guinea for a breaking-fast celebration at the National Mosque of PNG, Hohola.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Embassy staff in Hanoi made Raya special by uploading a video of themselves dancing to a festive hit song. They danced to the catchy Mimi Fly Hari Raya hit, “Serumpun”.
Rome, Italy
In Rome, embassy staff treated guests to Hari Raya dishes like lemang, rendang, and a variety of kuih. On March 30, the Malaysian embassy in Rome hosted a Hari Raya celebration for both Malaysians and friends of Malaysia in Italy. With the support of Perwakilan Rome, guests were treated to a delightful spread of Malaysian specialties.
Kuwait City, Kuwait
The embassy of Malaysia in Kuwait was the venue for a grand Aidilfitri celebration. Malaysians and friends of Malaysians alike headed to the embassy, which was splendidly decorated for a celebration featuring ambassador ‘Alauddin Mohd Nor. Old friendships were rekindled and new bonds forged in this festive celebration of peace, joy, and forgiveness.
Melbourne, Australia
The consulate-general of Malaysia in Melbourne had a “solat sunat” ceremony and social gathering with students from the Malaysia Hall Resident Club Melbourne. Various guests turned up in their festive best for an evening of fun and camaraderie.
Bangkok, Thailand
In Bangkok, the Malaysian embassy held a modest Raya gathering in the aftermath of the earthquake in Myanmar, with tremors felt in the Thai capital. The celebration could not be held at the embassy due to ongoing safety inspections, and was moved to the residence of defence attache Samsul Riza Musa. About 200 guests attended, including representatives from Brunei, Indonesia, and the Philippines, all in traditional attire.
Conclusion
As we celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri, we are reminded of the importance of family, friends, and community. Despite being thousands of miles away from home, Malaysians around the world came together to celebrate this special occasion. The Raya celebrations at Malaysian embassies around the world showcased the country’s unique culture and traditions, and provided a sense of belonging to those who attended.
FAQs
Q: What is Hari Raya Aidilfitri?
A: Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a significant Islamic holiday celebrated by Muslims around the world to mark the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.
Q: What is the significance of Hari Raya Aidilfitri?
A: Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a time of joy, gratitude, and reflection, marking the end of Ramadan and the start of a new month.
Q: How was Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrated at Malaysian embassies around the world?
A: Malaysian embassies around the world celebrated Hari Raya Aidilfitri with various events and activities, including cultural performances, traditional food, and social gatherings.
Q: Who attended the Raya celebrations at Malaysian embassies around the world?
A: The Raya celebrations at Malaysian embassies around the world were attended by Malaysians living abroad, including embassy officials, students, and members of the Malaysian diaspora.